The recent fare increase by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has ignited significant public backlash and political contention. Effective February 9, 2025, metro fares have risen by up to 50%, positioning Bengaluru’s Namma Metro as the most expensive public transportation system in India, surpassing those in Mumbai and Delhi.
Key Developments
The revised fare structure, implemented based on recommendations from the Fare Fixation Committee (FFC), has led to substantial increases. The maximum fare has escalated from Rs.60 to Rs.90, while the minimum fare remains at Rs.10. The fare breakdown is as follows:
- 0-2 km: Rs.10
- 2-4 km: Rs.20
- 4-6 km: Rs.30
- 6-8 km: Rs.40
- 8-10 km: Rs.50
- 10-12 km: Rs.60
- 12-15 km: Rs.70
- 15-20 km: Rs.80
- 20-25 km: Rs.90
Additionally, BMRCL has introduced peak and non-peak hour pricing, with discounts for smart card users. Smart card holders receive a 5% discount on fares, with an additional 5% discount during non-peak hours. There is also a 10% discount on Sundays and national holidays.
Political Reactions
The fare hike has become a focal point of political debate. Opposition parties, particularly the BJP, have criticized the increase, labeling it an unjust burden on commuters. Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya raised the issue in Parliament, urging authorities to reconsider the fare structure to ensure accessibility for the common man. He also met with the Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs to discuss concerns regarding the fare fixation by BMRCL.
In response, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah accused the BJP of hypocrisy, noting that while BJP leaders claim the metro as a central government achievement, they blame the state for fare revisions. He emphasized that BMRCL operates as a 50:50 joint venture between the state and the Centre, with its board chaired by the Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Public Response
Commuters have expressed their dissatisfaction through protests and social media campaigns. Reports indicate a noticeable decrease in metro ridership since the fare hike, with approximately 100,000 fewer passengers over three days. Many residents are calling for a boycott of the metro to pressure BMRCL into reconsidering the fare increase.
Government’s Stand
Following the public backlash, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has urged BMRCL to address anomalies in the fare revision. He instructed the Managing Director of BMRCL to urgently reduce fares where increases are abnormal, emphasizing that commuters’ interests must be safeguarded.
Conclusion
The Bengaluru Metro fare hike has led to widespread public dissatisfaction and political disputes. As the situation evolves, commuters and stakeholders await potential revisions to the fare structure that balance operational sustainability with public accessibility.
